New chief to take NAU police helm

Gregory T. Fowler, the assistant police chief for the city of Mesa, has been selected as the next chief of police for the Northern Arizona University Police Department.

Fowler, a 28-year member of the Mesa PD, will replace interim Chief Kathy Paleski, who will retire in late April. His anticipated start date at NAU is in early April.

“To me there is nothing more exciting than a career in law enforcement,” Fowler said. “I love working with people and public safety.”

Fowler joined the Mesa Police Department in 1978 as a patrol officer. He has served as detective, sergeant, lieutenant, commander and assistant chief. He also was interim police chief for nine months.

Fowler said he is looking forward to working in a university setting.

“I am fortunate to be entering a well-run organization with high standards.” he said. “Given the size of the university, I believe there will be more opportunity than I have now for one-on-one interaction with officers and others.”

Although actively involved in several professional affiliations, including the Police Executive Research Forum, the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police, Fowler is especially proud of his work with the FBI National Academy Associates.

He is the most recent past president and will continue on the board of the academy, a non-profit international organization of senior law enforcement professionals who offer law enforcement expertise, training and education.

Fowler also is active in community endeavors, including Community Bridges, a nonprofit treatment and recovery organization for pregnant and postpartum women, the East Valley Addiction Council, the Mesa Ho Ho Kams, a community support group, and the Arizona Special Olympics.

“We are grateful to have Gregory’s vast experience and people skills join the university team,” saidKathe Shinham, NAU vice president for Administration and Finance.

Fowler added, “This is an incredible opportunity for me and my family. We have a place on the Mogollon Rim and we are anxious to relocate to Flagstaff.”